Developments In Spirituality Among Youth In Australia And Other Western Societies

10.1163/ej.9789004187900.i-488.26

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Chapter Summary

This chapter presents a profile, based on recent research, of the changing patterns of religion and spirituality among young people in Australia. The term 'spirituality', long used for the personal, practical dimension of traditional religion, has now acquired the much broader sense of 'whatever inspires someone'. The chapter examines topics such as traditional religions among youth, alternative spiritualities and spirituality and social involvement comparing recent Australian findings with those from other Western countries, especially Britain, Canada and the US. It explores research findings on youth's response to the alternative religions and alternative spiritual beliefs. The chapter also deals with religions which promote social involvement and beneficent concern for others.